Bust of Harlequin 1765 - 1775

This small porcelain bust, created by the Derby Porcelain Manufactory between 1765 and 1775, depicts Harlequin, a stock character of the Commedia dell'Arte. The figurine is a fine example of 18th-century porcelain making and the enduring popularity of the Commedia dell'Arte. The bust is crafted in a vibrant palette of colors, with Harlequin's traditional diamond-patterned costume rendered in meticulous detail. The figurine's small size and intricate craftsmanship demonstrate the technical skill of the Derby Porcelain Manufactory and the enduring appeal of the Commedia dell'Arte in the 18th century. The bust is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.